Cities and Towns in Ford County, Illinois
Founded in 1859, Ford County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Ford County was formed from Vermilion County. The city of Paxton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 53, Ford County has a population of 13,511 and area of 485 square miles (1,256 km²).
List of all cities in Ford County, IL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Cabery, IL | 60919 | 815/779 |
| Elliott, IL | 60933 | 217 |
| Garber, IL | 60936 | 217 |
| Gibson City, IL | 60936 | 217 |
| Kempton, IL | 60946 | 815/779 |
| Melvin, IL | 60952 | 217 |
| Paxton, IL | 60957 | 217 |
| Piper City, IL | 60959 | 815/779 |
| Roberts, IL | 60962 | 217 |
| Sibley, IL | 61773 | 217 |
| Stelle, IL | 60919 | 815/779 |
Major Cities and Towns in Ford County, Illinois
Paxton
Overview
Paxton is the county seat and largest city in Ford County, Illinois. Founded in 1859, Paxton was initially a railroad town and grew as an agricultural center. The city is centrally located along Interstate 57, approximately 100 miles south of Chicago and 30 miles north of Champaign. Its history is intertwined with the development of the Illinois Central Railroad, which significantly boosted its early growth. Today, Paxton serves as a hub for commerce, agriculture, and education within the county.
City Details
- Area: 2.6 square miles
- Population: 4,473 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 60957
- Latitude: 40.4584° N
- Longitude: 88.0953° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Paxton is home to several notable schools, including Paxton-Buckley-Loda High School, which serves students from the surrounding areas. Additionally, PBL Junior High and Clara Peterson Elementary are prominent educational institutions. One of the major landmarks in Paxton is the Paxton Carnegie Library, a historic building built in 1903. Other landmarks include Pells Park and the Ford County Courthouse, an iconic structure built in 1906 that serves as the legal heart of the county.
Gibson City
Overview
Gibson City, located in the western part of Ford County, was established in the mid-19th century and named after Jonathan B. Gibson, an early landowner. It played an important role as a regional farming community and railroad stop, contributing to the economic development of the area. Located near State Routes 9 and 47, Gibson City is known for its strong agricultural economy and friendly small-town atmosphere. The city is situated approximately 40 miles northwest of Champaign.
City Details
- Area: 2.08 square miles
- Population: 3,407 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 60936
- Latitude: 40.4645° N
- Longitude: 88.3734° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gibson City boasts several educational institutions, including Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley High School, which serves a wide rural area. GCMS Elementary and GCMS Middle School are also located in the city. Major landmarks include the Drummer Creek Bridge, a historical site, and North Park, which is a popular spot for community events. The Sand Trap Sports Bar and Grill and the Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley track and field complex are additional points of local interest.
Roberts
Overview
Roberts is a small village located in the northeastern part of Ford County. Established in 1873, the village was named after its founder, R. M. Roberts, who played a crucial role in the development of the local railway system. Despite its small size, Roberts was once a bustling hub during the heyday of the railroads. The village is located along Illinois Route 54 and is primarily residential and agricultural in nature.
City Details
- Area: 0.2 square miles
- Population: 333 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 60962
- Latitude: 40.6159° N
- Longitude: 88.1767° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Roberts is part of the Ford Central Consolidated School District, with children attending schools in nearby towns. The village itself does not have large schools, but educational services are accessible in Paxton and Gibson City. Landmarks in Roberts include the historic Roberts Grain Elevator, a symbol of the village’s agricultural heritage. Additionally, the town park hosts local events and is a focal point for community activities.
Piper City
Overview
Piper City is located in the northwestern corner of Ford County, near the border with Livingston County. The town was founded in 1867 by a group of settlers, and its early economy was based on agriculture and the Illinois Central Railroad. Over the years, Piper City has maintained its rural charm, and farming continues to be a central aspect of life here. The town is situated near Illinois Route 115 and has easy access to Interstate 57.
City Details
- Area: 0.8 square miles
- Population: 826 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 60959
- Latitude: 40.7556° N
- Longitude: 88.1870° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Piper City is part of the Tri-Point School District, which serves students from the town and surrounding areas. Tri-Point Junior High and Tri-Point High School are located nearby, providing education to local youth. The town is home to historic buildings like the Piper City Opera House and the First Presbyterian Church. Piper City also hosts an annual community festival at its main park, drawing residents from around the region.
Melvin
Overview
Melvin is a small village located in the northern part of Ford County. Established in 1871, the village grew around the development of the railroad system, which brought settlers and commerce to the region. Although the population has declined over the years, Melvin remains a close-knit community with a deep agricultural heritage. The village is situated near Illinois Route 54, providing access to larger cities like Paxton and Champaign.
City Details
- Area: 0.4 square miles
- Population: 426 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 60952
- Latitude: 40.5684° N
- Longitude: 88.2467° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Melvin is part of the Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley School District, with students attending GCMS schools in Gibson City. Landmarks in the village include the Melvin Grain Elevator, a reminder of the town’s agricultural roots, and the Melvin Community Hall, which hosts local events and gatherings. Additionally, the village has a historic downtown area with several preserved 19th-century buildings.
